sedimentary
Picture Jasper
Opaque microcrystalline quartz (SiO2 with iron oxide impurities)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, and cream with landscape-like banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Hexagonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Tan, brown, and cream with landscape-like banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Picture Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Tan, brown, and cream with landscape-like banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Hexagonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich fluids seeped through volcanic ash or sedimentary deposits, picking up iron oxides and other minerals that created unique patterns over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons), ornamental carvings, decorative stones, and meditation/healing practices.
Geological facts
The name 'picture jasper' comes from the way the patterns often resemble mini-landscapes, hills, or sky scenes. Many famous varieties come from the Owyhee Mountains in Oregon/Idaho.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its earthy color palette, opacity, and characteristic scene-like banding. It is commonly found in desert environments and volcanic regions globally.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Mudstone
Argillite / Siliciclastic sedimentary rock
sedimentary